Godfrey Smith should be re-instated as a first responder

SIR – I very much hope that Godfrey Smith, the first responder who was sacked for doing 33mph in a 20mph zone and driving the wrong way around a bollard, is re-instated and his steadfast contribution to lifesaving recognised.

He will have developed skills that anyone at risk would have been praying for: the ability to assess a life-threatening situation rapidly and then take immediate and effective action.

I would like to see the Government considering a legal change to highway standards for first responders rather than letting someone die while the first responder trundles along at 19mph in a 20mph zone.

Sally Wainman Ipswich, Suffolk

SIR – I am not aware of any Standing Orders that Godfrey Smith’s Authority may have in place, but he should have been protected by the Emergency Vehicle Road Traffic Legislation under Sec 87, RTR Act 1982.

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He can also claim an exemption to drive on the wrong side of a “keep left” bollard if safe to do so when responding to an emergency. At all times it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure the safety of road users.